Unmasked Masked Hunter

Subject: What is this? Location: Idaho May 23, 2017 3:36 pm Found two of these guys. Any idea as to what it can be? Signature: Andrew

“Unmasked” Masked Hunter

Dear Andrew, This looks to us like an immature “unmasked” Masked Hunter, Reduvius personatus, a species that when immature has a sticky exoskeleton that attracts dust and debris, effectively masking the insect in its habitat. Upon molting, it loses its mask, but soon attracts more dust and debris. We believe your individual is newly molted, hence “unmasked”. See this BugGuide image for comparison. Masked Hunters are beneficial predators that will help rid your home of unwanted critters like cockroaches and bed bugs, but one should exercise caution as they might deliver a painful, but not dangerous, bite.